As a State Coordinator, I spend a lot of time addressing internship issues in the firms. I see the great diversity of professional environments and have witnessed the great disparity in IDP programs. Some interns are in large and small firms that are resource rich and provide an active culture of participation in IDP and others are in firms with few resources or interest by management to engage the emerging professional in a meaningful internship.

It is the later intern condition that I would like to see changed.

I think the profession can do more to help create a better experience for those, that for whatever reason, are
not exposed to a professional and fulfilling internship. I am not suggesting another mentoring program but an opportunity for every emerging professional to be exposed to an optional supplementary program offered for IDP credit.

I propose we consider the following ideas as a platform for discussion and thought :

• A short course on Professional Architectural Practice and Ethics based on actual project experiences
• A face to face educational program using the Emerging Professional's Companion as a guide
• A boot camp similar to the one run by Rob Rosenfeld at NCARB

The idea is to involve practicing professionals with the interest and passion for architecture by sharing professional experiences and to expose the emerging professional to situations requiring the use of professional judgment and ethics in practical situations.

Note: IDP Coordinators were asked to respond to a more specific question based on their unique experiences with the interns.